Kindness Challenge|Week 2: Self-Compassion

Compassion is a feeling of deep sympathy for someone who is stricken by misfortune, with a desire to alleviate the suffering.

Regardless of whether that person is you or someone else, three things are necessary for compassion:

You must recognize the suffering

You must feel moved and want to help

You realize the common humanity in suffering

Number one seems simple enough; we easily recognize when someone else is hurting. But, sometimes we don’t recognize it in ourselves. At times we confuse sadness and anger when they can be one and the same.

This was something I discovered after enduring a long-term, verbally abusive marriage. I was angry at the way my spouse treated me but didn’t realize the feelings of outrage were interlaced with great sadness.

With some therapy and a lot of helpful books, I was able to develop a better awareness of my own feelings and how they dictated my behavior. I learned about Emotional Intelligence (EI), which is the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one’s emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships carefully and with sensitivity.

It’s taken some work, but I score better today on EI measurements. The well-known author of Emotional Intelligence 2.0, Dr. Travis Bradberry, wrote an article listing the11 signs that you lack EI.It’s an easy read in case you’re wondering where you fall on the scale.

Number two is easy for me when it comes to other people. I’ve always been empathetic and sometimes to my own detriment. This is a hallmark of codependence; putting other people’s needs first because you feel so bad for them. But, what about me?

Unfortunately, I didn’t apply this to myself. Instead, I’d listen to my inner critic, which is always quick to point out weaknesses and failures. Compassion was something I saved for others, not realizing how much I needed it.

Number three is a bit complicated. Yes, everyone suffers at times, but at the hands of an abuser, you mistakenly think that you deserve the pain; that you’ve done something wrong to warrant the criticism and put-downs. Essentially, I could look at other abused people and feel sorry for them, but not myself.

It’s a strange concept now that I’ve healed from those years of malicious treatment. If only I had cared for myself back then the way that I do today. I would’ve salvaged so much time and self-esteem. However, I’m grateful that I got out of that toxic environment with a much better appreciation for myself.

Of course, no one’s perfect. I still have moments where I doubt my abilities. But, I recognize this as a human condition that everyone feels at times.

The difference now is that I’m aware when those feelings strike. I’ve learned to counter the fear and doubt and use positive self-talk.

I’ve learned to treat myself the way that I’d treat a loved one; with care and compassion. I focus on my strengths and allow for the weaknesses. If I fail at something I encourage myself to try again.

Because of all that I’ve learned, I’m able to be my own best friend. And that makes me a better friend to others!

Emotional intelligence is so important! I think this is undervalued in society but is essential! This is something I focus on in the upbringing of my children and it has started by learning it myself! Thank you for sharing your experience. I’m sorry for what you went through but I admire your strength, outlook, and desire to find healthy ways to cope and heal. Sending you lots of love Lulu! ❤ ❤ ❤